Only One Son – In the Line of Duty

NEWSLETTER –  Barb and Ray Payne –  June 12th,  2006

“Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands:  Sing forth the honour of His Name: make His praise glorious.  Say unto God,  How terrible (awesome) [art Thou in] Thy works! through the greatness of Thy power shall Thine enemies submit themselves unto Thee. All the earth shall worship Thee, and shall sing unto Thee; they shall sing [to] Thy Name. Selah.” Psalm 66:1-4

Warm greetings, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners, what a Great God we serve!

May was quite a “trip” – over 5,000 miles on the road – mostly by Ray, since Barb was “stretched” with her teaching responsibilities!   Now only one week remains,  and the Lord has used Barb in these young lives, and has allowed her to be an influence for good in her students … so, she has had much more effect on their lives than just academics!  She sends a huge “Thank You” to all who prayed her through the school year!

Ray just finished the annual “Americade” – 50,000 bikers in Lake George and the area for their yearly “pilgrimage” … it was rain, rain, and more rain – but that didn’t even seem to put a damper on their activities.  Ray hung out mostly with the Blue Knights – a national organization of law enforcement officers – active and retired, that own and ride.  Our son, David, became a Blue Knight in Maine just before his line-of-duty death in July of 1988.  His name is on “Heaven 1″ – the Memorial Chapter of the Blue Knights – and, of course, a very focal point to make contacts.

Next week, the 18th to 25th, our four daughters have arranged to rent a house in North Carolina on the Outer Banks so that they and husbands and grandchildren (not all will be able to make it) can get together for a special time for our “Fiftieth!” -(can you believe it?)  All are looking forward to it and trust that the weather will cooperate!  Of course, Ray cannot pass up all of the many law enforcement “contacts” that will be available along the way, and he will be supplied with all of the necessary materials for distribution!  (Our actual anniversary isn’t until this September, but June was better for everyone.)

Thank you for your continued faithfulness in prayers and support in this vital ministry!  You’ve been such an encouragement to us over the years, and we feel very blessed to know you and to know your love!  May His richest blessings be your continued portion as you faithfully serve Him!    I Corinthians 3:9a

In Christ’s Eternal Love,

Ray and Barb

II Timothy 1:12